Case study atlas
Strengthening Broadcasting in the Pacific Islands: A Pathway to Development
Evaluating the Pacific Broadcasting Programme through consultation with 54 stakeholders across eight Pacific countries.
The challenge
In 2015, Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Ltd (PCBL) was formed to bridge the gap between New Zealand and the Pacific Islands through television broadcasting. With funding from New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the Pacific Broadcasting Programme (PBP) launched Pasifika TV, a dedicated channel that streams New Zealand-made content around the clock to 13 Pacific Island countries and territories and partners with local free-to-air broadcasters to elevate journalism and technical skills.
What we did
- Conducted an evaluation in late 2022 to assess the programme's effectiveness and sustainability, through extensive consultations with broadcasters from eight priority countries via interviews and focus groups.
- The evaluation team, led by Future Partners, comprised in-country consultants who gathered insights from 54 key stakeholders across the Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu.
Outcomes
Findings The findings highlighted the programme's significant relevance to the Pacific Islands' needs and its alignment with their domestic priorities. While some countries embraced the programme more than others, the increase in access to and quality of free-to-air programming, including Pasifika TV, was widely praised. Although short- and medium-term outcomes have been successful, establishing a sustainable broadcasting culture will require more time and effort. The report's recommendations are being considered by MFAT.
Client feedback Natasha Meleisea, CEO of PCBL, commended Future Partners for their practical and engaging approach in executing the evaluation. Their ability to forge genuine connections with stakeholders was crucial in achieving high engagement levels throughout the process. Meleisea noted the team's dedication to understanding the programme's challenges and successes, which facilitated actionable recommendations and ongoing improvements.
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